Outdoor air pollution is a prominent environmental health problem that affects not only the low and middle income countries but also high-income countries. Globally, 99 percent of the population breathes air containing high level of pollutants, exceeding the WHO limits.

It is not mere environmental issue rather it is a health emergency. It triggers cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, which increases both morbidity and mortality. In 2021, air pollution caused 8.1 million deaths globally becoming a second leading risk factor for death.

These statistics include children under five years of age as well. This rising burden of disease, which is associated with rising economic burden, calls upon governments to make efforts towards improving air quality so that the burden on public health and the cost associated with it could be reduced.

As part of global commitment to a healthier planet, the countries have pledged to achieve the sustainable development goals (SDGs) by 2030. SDG 3 underscores need for ensuring good health and well-being for people of all ages. Within this goal, the target 3.4 calls for reduction in pre-mature mortality due to non-communicable diseases by one third and target 3.9 specifically asks for a significant reduction in deaths and illnesses by air pollution. Similarly, SDG 11 aims to make cities safe, sustainable and resilient; within it the target 11.6 calls for improvement in urban air quality.

Pakistan is also committed to SDGs but it is still struggling........

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